Buying Property in Curaçao | Complete Buyer's Guide

Thinking about buying a house, apartment, villa or investment property in Curaçao? Whether you already live on the island or are looking to purchase property in Curaçao from abroad, Keller Williams Curaçao is here to guide you through the entire process.

Buying real estate in Curaçao can be surprisingly straightforward. Both residents and non-residents can purchase property on the island, and property transfers are handled through a Curaçao civil-law notary.

At Keller Williams Curaçao, our goal is to make buying your property as transparent, comfortable and enjoyable as possible—from finding the right home to receiving the keys.

Can Foreigners Buy Property in Curaçao?

Yes. Residents and non-residents can buy and own real estate in Curaçao.

You do not need to be a Curaçao resident to purchase a house, apartment, villa or other real estate on the island. Property ownership is protected by law, and the legal transfer of ownership takes place through a local civil-law notary.     

This makes Curaçao an accessible real estate market for international buyers looking for a permanent home, second residence, vacation property or investment.

Working With a Buyer’s Agent in Curaçao

When buying property in an unfamiliar market, having a local real estate professional representing your interests can make the process considerably easier.

At Keller Williams Curaçao, you do not need to sign a buyer’s agreement with us.

In Curaçao, the seller generally pays the real estate commission. This means buyers usually do not pay an additional agent fee.

There can be rare situations where a listing agent or seller does not share commission with the buyer’s agent. If that happens, we will discuss it with you before proceeding. A buyer’s commission would only apply if you ultimately purchase the property and would always be agreed with you beforehand.    

Access to Properties Across Curaçao

You are also not limited to properties listed by Keller Williams Curaçao.

We cooperate with other real estate agents and agencies across the island, allowing us to help you explore a broad range of homes and properties for sale in Curaçao.

Our objective is simple: finding the property that is right for you—not simply selling you one of ours. 

What Are the Costs of Buying Property in Curaçao?

In addition to the agreed purchase price, buyers should budget for buyer’s costs, including transfer tax, notary fees and registration costs.

Transfer tax is generally 4%, and as a guideline, buyers can budget approximately 6% of the purchase price for the total additional acquisition costs.     

The exact amount depends on the property and transaction, so we recommend obtaining an accurate calculation for the property you are considering.

Financing a Property in Curaçao

Mortgage financing is available in Curaçao, although financing conditions vary depending on your financial situation and whether you are a resident or non-resident.

As a general guideline, Curaçao banks may finance around 50% of the purchase price, with the remaining amount coming from the buyer’s own funds. For Curaçao residents, higher financing percentages may be possible depending on the individual circumstances.     

Keller Williams Curaçao can connect buyers with trusted mortgage professionals who can explain the available financing options.

What Currency Is Used When Buying Property in Curaçao?

Curaçao's official currency is the Caribbean guilder (XCG).

Depending on the transaction, banks and notaries can also process transfers in US dollars and euros, which can make purchasing property more convenient for international buyers.     

Property Tax in Curaçao

Owners of privately owned land may be subject to annual property tax, known locally as OZB (Onroerendezaakbelasting).

According to our current Buyer’s Guide, the progressive rates are:

  • Up to XCG 350,000: 0.4%
  • XCG 350,000–750,000: XCG 1,400 + 0.5% of the value above XCG 350,000
  • Above XCG 750,000: XCG 3,400 + 0.6% of the value above XCG 750,000.     

Freehold vs. Leasehold Property in Curaçao

When searching for real estate for sale in Curaçao, you may encounter two different types of land ownership.

Property land / freehold means the land is privately owned. The owner holds full ownership and the property is generally subject to annual property tax (OZB).

Leasehold land (erfpacht) means the land itself is owned by the government while the holder has a long-term leasehold right. An annual ground-lease payment may apply. Leasehold rights can run for long periods and may be renewable.     

Before purchasing a leasehold property, the applicable lease conditions, duration and annual ground rent should be reviewed as part of the purchase process.

Residency in Curaçao When You Own Property

Buying property in Curaçao does not automatically mean that you become a resident. Property ownership and immigration/residency are separate matters.

The Buyer’s Guide currently lists different permitted stay periods depending on nationality, as well as investment-based residency possibilities beginning at XCG 500,000.     

Because immigration requirements and regulations can change, international buyers should always verify the rules applicable to their nationality and circumstances with the relevant Curaçao authorities or an immigration professional.

Why Buy Property With Keller Williams Curaçao?

Buying a home in Curaçao is about much more than completing a real estate transaction. It may be your permanent move to the Caribbean, a second home, an investment or simply the beginning of a completely different lifestyle.

Our Keller Williams Curaçao real estate agents combine local market knowledge with an international real estate network.

We can help you:

  • Search for suitable houses, villas, apartments and investment properties across Curaçao
  • Understand different neighborhoods and locations
  • Coordinate viewings
  • Navigate the purchase and negotiation process
  • Understand practical and legal aspects of buying
  • Connect with mortgage and other relevant professionals
  • Coordinate the process through to the transfer of your new property

Our priority throughout the process is your interests and finding the right property for you.     

Looking for Property for Sale in Curaçao?

Whether you're looking for a house for sale in Curaçao, a luxury villa, apartment, waterfront property, building lot or investment opportunity, we'd love to help.

Explore our current Curaçao real estate listings or contact Keller Williams Curaçao and tell us what you're looking for.

Ready to start your Curaçao property search?

Get in touch with our team and let us help you find your place on the island.